From LADbible · · 1m
Wetherspoons pub ban on poppies sparks backlash
Wetherspoons pub denied entry to veteran for wearing poppy after local protests.
In brief
Wetherspoons pub denied entry to veteran for wearing poppy after local protests. Wetherspoons closed its Gosport pub due to security measures during anti-immigration protests, despite having no poppy ban policy. Originally reported by LADbible.
Viral video shows poppy ban
Viral footage captured a doorman describing the poppy as 'political' in Gosport pub.
“That group down there - if they've got pride flag badges we'll also be turning them away. It's fair for everybody, it is blanket, full stop.”
Wetherspoons denies poppy ban
Wetherspoons says no blanket ban on poppies but some customers were turned away due to security measures.
“Wetherspoon has been a long-standing supporter of the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, with poppies for sale in our pubs, including the Star.”
Veteran denied entry
Army veteran Scott Schillemore was told he couldn't enter pub despite serving in Army from 2009 to 2015.
“Wetherspoons still sells poppies, but we're not allowed to enter a pub with one? It's ludicrous.”
Reform councillor criticises
Reform councillor George Madgwick called Wetherspoons response 'shameful' for refusing veteran entry.
“As a former Royal Marines Commando and current Councillor I am absolutely shocked and sickened to hear that an Army veteran has been refused entry into a Wetherspoons for wearing a poppy!”
Pub closed early
Wetherspoons closed pub at 5pm on Sunday due to police advice after anti-immigration protests.
“The pub closed to all customers, on advice of the police, at 5pm and remains closed today.”
Protesters gather in Gosport
Around 400 anti-immigration protesters gathered in Gosport on Sunday with 100 counter-protesters.
“Around 400 people had gathered for an anti-immigration protest in Gosport the same day.”
The short version
Wetherspoons closed its Gosport pub due to security measures during anti-immigration protests, despite having no poppy ban policy.
